Dogs Facial Hair Loss Causes

According to FDA Consumer Magazine, the leading cause of facial hair loss in dogs is an environmental allergy. Spring allergies---allergies due to an increase of pollen in the atmosphere---cause dogs to rub their face against sidewalks, rugs or walls to relieve the itching sensation. Demodex mites also cause patches of facial hair loss in young dogs. Both issues cause permanent hair loss if not treated.

Both causes develop in dogs under the age of one. Environmental allergies occur when the dog is exposed to highly pollinated areas, such as fields or parks. The Long Beach Animal Hospital says Demodex mites are caused during nursing, however, transferred from mother to puppy. Since puppies expose their faces to the mother's nipple during feeding, facial hair loss is mostly present on the face.

Facial hair loss occurs in patches on the face. Environmental allergies cause the dog to scratch at the skin, tearing away hair and irritating the skin. It occurs anywhere on the face. Demodex mites cause hair loss around the eyes and upper cheeks.

For dogs with environmental allergies, facial hair loss causes skin infections. The constant rubbing and itching digs into the skin and causes gashes or deep scratches. If it touches a contaminated surface, bacteria will infect the area.

Both causes are not preventable. Allergies and mites occur randomly, and scientists have not discovered a method for predicting these causes before they occur. Allergies are treated with medicine, either oral or topical. Demodex mites are treated with special baths that kill off the mites.

Facial hair loss is permanent if not treated. Scarred tissue, caused by excessive issue, damages the hair follicles. Demodex mites cause damaged follicles also. Both issues are treatable and have high recovery rates.